Mayor Walsh ensures access to early voting in Boston

Early Voting Sites to be available in each City Council district with extended hours.

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BOSTON - Friday, April 8, 2016 - With high-turnout expected in Boston for the November 2016 election, Mayor Martin J. Walsh announced that the City of Boston will open nine early voting sites, one in each City Council District with weekend and evening hours, to ensure that all voters have equitable access to the polls this November.

The Early Voting Initiative will make participation more convenient for all, particularly those with work schedules, family obligations or other obstacles to going to the polls. To promote access across the city, the Mayor has committed $670,000 to meet and exceed the state requirement of one early voting site to be open during normal business hours.

"A vibrant democracy is one where every resident has the opportunity to have their voice heard," said Mayor Walsh. "I am pleased that in Massachusetts, we have taken a significant step forward by passing election reforms that allow for early voting. Here in Boston, we are committed to giving all of our residents the opportunity to participate."

In 2014, Massachusetts passed an election reform law allowing for early voting. This year, the Early Voting period will begin on Monday, October 24, 2016 and end on Friday, November 4, 2016. Election Day is Tuesday, November 8, 2016.

The Mayor's Election Advisory Committee and the Boston Redevelopment Authority's Research Department are currently assisting the Election Department in developing a detailed plan that incorporates several early voting proposals for public input and feedback. A plan will be submitted to the Boston Election Commission for approval by summer 2016.